bystanders

Definition of bystandersnext
plural of bystander
as in spectators
someone who sees or watches something bystanders rushed to help the victim of the mugging

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bystanders Portions of the incident were captured on various live streams broadcast by the plaintiffs and other bystanders. Los Angeles Times, 7 Apr. 2026 The dispatcher overheard bystanders rushing to help him before the call disconnected. Meredith Colias-Pete, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2026 Patrick O'Malley said each case differs, but that officers always prioritize the safety of innocent bystanders. Tom Wait, CBS News, 3 Apr. 2026 Sources familiar with the investigation told this news organization that several bystanders captured at least part of the confrontation on video. Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 3 Apr. 2026 After bystanders came to Arielle Konig's aid, Gerhardt Konig left the scene. Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 1 Apr. 2026 But the driver of the burning car was non-responsive, and the doors to the car would not open as Johnson and other bystanders attempted to help the victim. Abigail Adams, PEOPLE, 1 Apr. 2026 Martin and Payton each face three murder counts in the shooting deaths of bystanders Yamile Martinez, 21; Johntaya Alexander, 21; and Melinda Davis, 57. Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 30 Mar. 2026 Authorities said bystanders began CPR before first responders arrived, and rescue crews spent more than an hour freeing one person trapped in the wreckage. Aidin Vaziri, San Francisco Chronicle, 27 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bystanders
Noun
  • The facility will also include viewing areas for spectators to accommodate organized events and community programming.
    Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Stars made sacrificial effort plays that could convince most spectators this was a playoff showdown — Jamal Murray diving into the second row to save a loose ball, Aaron Gordon developing a limp then playing through it to guard De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama on game-deciding possessions.
    Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 5 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • It has been widely expected since Lam’s reelection as Communist Party head in January, when observers noted that his consolidation of party authority positioned him to assume the presidency as well.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 Apr. 2026
  • Dube isn’t as panicked about its impact on wages and employment as many other observers are.
    John Cassidy, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The signage lets viewers know it is made from silk chiffon and embroidered with bugle beads.
    Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Therefore, viewers will see vitality, enthusiasm, passion for life, hope … something uplifting and useful.
    Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Bystanders.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bystanders. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.

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